Life can change in an instant, and no one understands this better than Diana Lynn. Lynn recalls a blissfully happy childhood with her mother and adopted father. She felt safe, supported, and loved. Then, after her sister was born, her parents’ marriage broke down, and there was no one left but Lynn to pick up the pieces. As their family grew bigger, it became increasingly dysfunctional. Lynn was forced to grow up quickly.

The brightest points of her new life were always her four younger sisters: Judy, Kim, Linda, and Lisa. Together, the five weathered the traumas of alcoholism, instability, violence, molestation, and attempted suicide. In her new memoir, The Road Back to Hell, Lynn honors these incredible women while also revealing the tragic consequences her parents’ violent and erratic behavior had on the lives of their children.

Lynn’s work celebrates the powerful bond of sisterhood and shows that there is hope in even the darkest and most difficult times. Lynn reminds readers that no one is beyond help—taking that first step away from a terrible situation can be the beginning of a rewarding walk toward peace and closure.

This is a riveting and very personal memoir of a life well lived considering all the obstacles that were thrown her way. Many of us grow up in June Cleaver type homes. I for one , did. But, others do not have that good fortune and Diana is one of them. She shares her personal struggles and loss with her audience in such a candid way that the reader cannot put it down. This book would especially be helpful to those who have come from dysfunction in their families or who are struggling at present. I highly recommend this read for anyone. Emotions are raw and I commend the author for her courage and literary talent . You will love this book...

5 Stars 'The book is great and definitely a page turner!'By Kathleen Crooks on February 12, 2017

This book is a very compelling moving memoir. Diana presented her life in such a way that made me not want to lay the book down until the end. I have read the book twice now, and each time can sense the inner strength of the author. The book is a great read and definitely a page turner.

5 Stars 'Didn't want to put this book down!'By B. T. Painter on September 5, 2017

Diana Lynn does a fabulous job of making you feel as though you are right there in the scene so that you feel like you are experiencing everything that happens. It was very difficult to put the book down. Diana shows that one can rise above the fray and make a good life for them self.

'Tis the Season to be Thankful

While looking around my office the other day, I spotted the message my granddaughter, Sophie texted me last Thanksgiving. "Happy Thanksgiving, Nonny- words can't explain how thankful I am to have gotten a grandma as cool as you!" I remember how my heart soared when I first read it. I copied it in a word program so I could save and pasted a copy on my office wall. When I glanced at this message touched me once again and reminded me of all the things for which I am most thankful.

I am Thankful for...

My husband Jim, the love of my life and my soul mate. For the past forty-one years, he has supported and encouraged me in all that I do. He found me when I needed someone to love me unconditionally, and he has.

My two sons, Todd and Nathan. They fulfilled my maternal soul the moment they were born. They have made me laugh, made me cry, made me happy and me sad, but most of all they have made me proud! I cannot imagine my life without them. I am also thankful for their wives, Shawna and Jody because they have each brought something special into my life.

My five grandchildren- Matt, Dane, Elliot, Sophie and Truman. Each one of them has a special gift that truly touches my heart. When I browse through old photos and listen to old tapes, I am reminded of all the great times we have spent together over the years. Each memory is a blessing.

My sisters Judy, Kim, Linda and Lisa. Although we shared some difficult times during our childhood, the memories of our bonding as adults have brought me a deeper love and understanding of each of them. It has also brought me peace and closure.

My living relatives- my Aunt Jean, my Uncle Gene, my nieces and nephews, my cousin Suzie, as well as the wonderful families I have inherited through my marriages.

All of my family members who have gone before me. Each one of them played an important role is shaping me into the woman I am today.

All of the wonderful friends I have made over the years. From my childhood friends to those I have made as an adult, I treasure each one. They have all had a very positive influence on my life, which I will always remember. I treasure them all.

Everyone who has reached out to me after reading my memoir, "The Road Back to Hell". The main goal for writing my story was to share it with others in hopes that it would offer solace and comfort to others who had endured similar situations in their lives. My heart and door is always open to those who need to share their story.

My faith in God and my friends at Grace Lutheran Church. God has blessed me with countless gifts and watched over me in my darkest hours. My friends at church are like family.

All of my doggies who have walked beside me on life's journey. Each one has a special place in my heart.

To be a citizen of the United States of America. While our country has its problems, there is no place in the world I would rather live. I pray every day that we will continue to strive to remain united as one-nation under God.

I am certain there are things I have forgotten, but these twelve things were the first that immediately came to mind. I printed this to hang on my office wall for the days I need a lift. How could I ever be unhappy with a list like this?

Thank you for being my friend and supporter! I would love to have you share some of the things for which you are most thankful.

May you and your family be filled with thankfulness (as well as turkey)- this Thanksgiving Day!